House fire caused by washing machine

The Fire Service Communications Centre advised Energy Safety of a rural house fire involving a washing machine. Total loss of the house was reported.

Accident ID:

160809-11

Accident date:

9 August 2016

Site:

Domestic

Environment:

Building

Voltage:

230

Equipment:

Washing Machines

Accident type:

Fire

Casualty:

Non-fatality

Injury:

No injury

Property damage level:

Extended to the site

Outcome of investigation:

The washing machine had been repaired following a safety recall. However, the repair work performed was sub-standard and not performed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. The technician responsible was found to be no longer living in New Zealand, so could not be held responsible. However, the other washing machines he had also worked on as part of the recall process were traced and checked/replaced by Samsung.